Casey Carew

Tell us a bit about yourself?
Hello, I’m Casey! I have always had an interest in helping others and seeing them succeed and thrive. However, my journey into allied health took a few years. I started by pursuing an education degree straight out of high school, but through placements, I realized my passion for children and one-on-one work, which led me to explore other fields. After a stint in the dental industry as a dental assistant, I found my calling in occupational therapy, which resonated with my values and interests. I’m now in the process of pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy, and I couldn’t be more excited to start this next chapter!

What first inspired you to pursue a career in allied health, and why do you still love it today?
My journey into allied health was born from my desire to help others in a meaningful, hands-on way. Initially, I thought teaching was my path, but through placements, I discovered that I was more suited for one-on-one or small group interactions. This led me to the dental industry, where I loved assisting people in stressful situations. Eventually, I found occupational therapy, which aligns perfectly with my passion for working closely with individuals and helping them overcome challenges in everyday life. I still love it because it allows me to make a direct impact on people's well-being and help them thrive.

If someone was just starting out in allied health, what’s the best advice you’d give them?
My advice would be to stay curious and open-minded. It's easy to get caught up in the idea of finding a "perfect" career path, but sometimes it takes a few detours to find what truly resonates with you. Don't be afraid to try different roles and learn from each experience. Also, seek out mentorship and networking opportunities—you’ll be amazed at how much you can learn from others in the field.

If you could shadow another healthcare professional for a day, who would it be and why?
I think I would love to shadow a clinical psychologist. Understanding how they assess and support individuals’ mental health would provide great insight into how various healthcare professionals collaborate to improve a person’s well-being. As an aspiring occupational therapist, it would be fascinating to learn about the psychological aspects of care and how mental health intersects with physical health.

How do you stay balanced and regulate yourself?
I believe in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, so in my downtime, I make sure to engage in activities that help me unwind and recharge. Some of my favorites include attending live music events, going to the cinema, swimming, and reading. These activities help me relax, clear my mind, and come back to my work feeling refreshed.

What do you do for fun?
I enjoy a variety of activities for fun! I’m a huge fan of live music, so I love attending events whenever I can. I also love going to the movies—my all-time favorite film is Little Miss Sunshine. On top of that, I enjoy swimming and diving into new books. I’m always on the lookout for great recommendations, so feel free to share your favorites!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself having completed my Bachelor’s in Occupational Therapy and working as a registered OT, helping individuals overcome obstacles and improve their quality of life. I hope to be part of a collaborative team where I can continue to grow and learn from others in the field. I’d also like to be contributing to improving practices within allied health by staying up-to-date with emerging techniques and research.

What are you currently studying or planning to study?
I’m currently studying for my Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy, and I’m incredibly excited about this new chapter in my life. I’m eager to take what I’m learning in the classroom and apply it in real-life settings as soon as possible.

What’s your favorite movie and why?
Little Miss Sunshine is my favorite movie. It’s a quirky, heartfelt story that celebrates the importance of family and embracing individuality. I love the humor and the underlying message about staying true to yourself, no matter how unconventional that might be.

How do you handle situations when a child is experiencing strong emotions and is in the red zone?
When a child is in the “red zone,” it’s important to approach them with empathy and patience. I find that grounding techniques and helping them express what they’re feeling can be very effective. Sometimes, creating a safe space for them to calm down before engaging further is essential. I always try to remain calm myself to model self-regulation and provide a reassuring presence.